Our goal is to give you the most up-to-date, accurate information about your state DMV's processes. The date you see here reflects the most recent time we've verified this information with your state DMV. When they change something, we do, too!

A
sold notice ensures that you are not responsible for any tickets or accidents that occur after you sell the car.

NOTE: In some cases, the buyer may request you to go with them to the AZ MVD office to complete the auto title transfer.

Title Transfer Issues in Arizona

Several problems could prevent a smooth car title transfer when you buy or sell a vehicle.

Seller Names and Signatures

The vehicle title must be
correctly assigned to complete the DMV title transfer.

To avoid title transfer problems or illegal vehicle sales, make sure that:

The seller's name is on the titleAND he or she signs it. If a seller is acting on behalf of an owner, they MUST have documentation of their right to do so, such as:

Power of attorney.

A court order.

All sellers sign the title:

If multiple names are joined by “and" OR “and/or,"ALL listed owners must sign the title.

All sellers' signatures are notarized.

The seller gives you a notarized lien release for any liens on the vehicle.

NOTE: If the seller's name DOES NOT match the name on the vehicle title, he/she may be selling the vehicle illegally. Be sure the seller has power of attorney or other documentation showing rights to legally sell the vehicle.

Missing Title

You
must have a vehicle title to transfer ownership of a vehicle in Arizona.

If you're
buying a car in AZ that doesn't have a title, the seller must get a duplicate title to transfer to you.

Liens on the Title

If you buy a vehicle that has a lien on it,
YOU will be responsible for paying the lien.

Even if the title has no liens listed, the
vehicle could have a lien that does not appear on the title, such as a child support lien.

To ensure that the vehicle you buy is clear of any financial or other liens, use the Arizona
MVD online lien check service. To further ensure that the vehicle is lien-free, go with the seller to an AZ MVD office to complete the car title transfer.

If you're selling a vehicle, be sure you
remove any liens before you transfer the title.

Out-of-State Title Transfer to AZ

When you move to Arizona, you must transfer your out-of-state title
as soon as you become a resident.

NOTE: If you live or work in the Phoenix or Tucson areas, your vehicle must pass an emissions inspectionBEFORE you complete the DMV title transfer and registration. Visit our AZ Car Inspection page for complete details.

To get an AZ title, you'll apply
in person at your local MVD office. You need to take: